Actively Recruiting
Brain Vascular and Neural Function Linked to Balance Across the Adult Lifespan
Led by University of Minnesota · Updated on 2026-03-27
102
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying the connection between brain blood flow, neural function, and balance control across different adult age groups. This study aims to better understand how cerebrovascular health relates to balance and aging by observing neurotypical and cognitively normal younger, middle-aged, and older adults. It is a single-arm, non-randomized, cross-sectional study focused on basic science exploration. Participants will perform a single session of aerobic exercise using a recumbent stepper machine to evaluate how cerebral blood flow changes with exercise. The study includes one visit where researchers assess the cerebrovascular response to exercise. They will also record brain activity with EEG and collect biomechanical data during standing balance tests. Blood samples will be taken for genomic analysis. During the visit, participants will undergo transcranial Doppler ultrasound to measure cerebral blood flow velocity, biomechanical assessments of balance reactions, and EEG to monitor brain coherence after balance challenges. Researchers will measure how the brain and body respond to exercise and balance tasks. The total participation involves two visits, focusing on detailed assessments of brain and balance function related to aging.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Brain Vascular and Neural Function Linked to Balance Across the Adult Lifespan
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age within the following 3 group age ranges: 21-30 years; 40-55 years; 65-95 years
- Absence of major orthopedic disability
- Cognitively normal with a MoCA score of 26 or higher in the older adult group
- Vision 20/40 or better with or without corrective lenses
- Ability to consent and communicate with researchers
- English speaking
- Ability to stand for 3 minutes and walk 10 meters with or without an assistive device and without assistance from another person
You will not qualify if you...
- Insulin-dependent diabetes
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Myocardial infarction or symptoms of coronary artery disease within the past 2 years
- Congestive heart failure or class IV heart failure
- Any significant sensory impairment affecting balance or cognition, including visual, vestibular, or auditory impairments
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
Duration - 1 day
Participants complete a single session of aerobic exercise as part of the study procedures.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55414
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Jacqueline Palmer
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Number of Arms
1
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